Meet the team: Jeanette Bowden

Meet Jeanette Bowden, Training and Technical Assistance Manager, DV RISC and Firearms Project

Where are you from?

Born and raised in NYC but live in Georgia.  Both my parents were born in Puerto Rico.  I have a close relationship with the island.

Where do you feel most at home?

I feel most at home in my home.  I like the occasional run to the store or dining out but there is no place like being in the comfort of my home.

What inspires you, professionally and personally?

I am professionally inspired by the need for change.  Personally, I am inspired by change.  I don’t like to be stagnant and thrive in changing environments.

What are your areas of expertise or what areas are particularly interesting to you?

My areas of expertise are gender-based violence and trauma centered approaches.

Share one thing you have learned, big or small, doing your work over the past year? 

Self- reflection and self- awareness are key to working with anyone.

Who inspires you? 

I am inspired by my children.  They make me want more and to do better.

What do you do to relax, de-stress or recharge your batteries?

I enjoy audio books, cooking the most.  Occasionally, I indulge in TV. 

Why have you chosen to do this kind of work? 

Growing up in a household with strict gender roles, I found it to be unfair.  As I grew older, I realized that some of what I witnessed was unhealthy and abusive.  At an early age, I decided that I wanted to work in a field where I could be of help to women that were experiencing what I witnessed as a child and young adult.

What is your favorite food?

I am a lover of most food but my favorites are Puerto Rican and Turkish.

What is your favorite book?

My favorite book is The Soul of a Woman by Isabelle Allende.  I enjoy most books by this author.  I also enjoy books by James Patterson, and most books that take place during the Nazi era.